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Celtic are reportedly one of a number of teams chasing a deal for Mexican defender Edson Alvarez.

What's the story?

Sport Witness have collated a number of reports focused on the future of Alvarez, including two that claim Celtic want to sign the explosive 21 year-old.

Alvarez, a versatile centre-back with the speed to play as a full back or in midfield, was linked with the Hoops last year.

Now, both Nacion Deportes and America Monumental include Celtic in the list of interested parties, with Inter Milan and PSV also mentioned as possible landing spots.

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Multipurpose

Valued at £6.75m by Transfermarkt, a move for Alvarez shouldn’t break the bank for the Hoops, and it could potentially kill two birds with one stone.

Neil Lennon’s side are crying out for a solid central defender, which Alvarez is primarily, but his ability to play various positions means the club don’t have to find a replacement for back-up right back Cristian Gamboa, who will likely depart when his contract ends this summer.

This is not to say that Alvarez would be signed to help out at right back, but having that option in case of emergencies will certainly be a big boost for whoever is in the dugout next season.

It also allows the club to focus on other areas of need, all while addressing a major issue in the squad at the heart of defence.

And address that issue is exactly what Alvarez would do, as he is just the type of commanding physical force that the current crop at the back are crying out for.

He is only 6 ft 1, but the 20-cap Mexican international’s mobility, athleticism and dogged determination make him just about the toughest opponent you could face in a physical battle.

Celtic are absolutely right to reignite their interest in Alvarez, and his rough and tumble play could make him an instant cult hero at Parkhead.